Cooper Hoffman Reveals His Mom’s Hilarious Reaction to His BDSM Relationship with Olivia Wilde in “I Want Your Sex” (Exclusive)

Cooper Hoffman and Olivia Wilde take centre stage in the latest film by acclaimed director Gregg Araki, titled “I Want Your Sex.” This provocative dramedy explores the relationship between a recent college graduate and a mysterious artist, leading to an unconventional romance marked by BDSM themes.

In his role, 23-year-old Hoffman portrays Elliott, a young man navigating the difficulties of entering the job market. Elliott’s life takes an unexpected turn when he becomes entangled with Erika, played by Wilde, who is characterised by her obsession with sex and her unapologetic dominance in their relationship. The film charts the duo’s rapid evolution from professional acquaintances to partners in a highly charged and adventurous dynamic, which includes Elliott experiencing practices that challenge his comfort zones.

Despite his pride in the film, Hoffman admits to feeling apprehensive about how his family might react to some of the more explicit scenes. His mother, Mimi O’Donnell, who is a well-known costume designer and theatre director, has already seen the film. Although she seems to have appreciated it, she did confess that some moments caused her to cover her eyes and ears, a response Hoffman found completely understandable.

“My mum really loved it in general, but she was honest about the moments that made her cringe,” he shared in a recent interview. O’Donnell, who comes from a theatrical background, understands the artistic risks taken in such narrative choices, which perhaps made her viewing experience more comfortable than it would be for others.

Hoffman’s apprehension, however, extends to his younger sisters, Tallulah and Willa. The prospect of them viewing the film, which delves into themes of sexual exploration and surrender, deeply unsettles him. “When I say I won’t show it to them, I mean it. I’m not planning a movie night to watch this together,” he joked, adding that he is concerned about their reactions to the content, especially with clips from the film appearing in promotional material.

Compounding his worries, Hoffman revealed that he has received messages from friends from his high school, teasing him about the film’s subject matter. The shared experience of navigating awkward conversations surrounding adulthood seems to resonate within the cast. Chase Sui Wonders, who plays Elliott’s roommate Apple, noted that many of her acquaintances are also engaging with her about the film, having seen trailers before other movies.

Reflecting on the reactions from both family and friends, Wonders added, “It’s a surreal experience when people from your past reach out about something you’re involved in professionally.” This highlights how the film’s adult themes can evoke curiosity and surprise, especially among those who knew them in different contexts.

Despite these nerves, both Hoffman and Wonders express a sense of pride in their work. The complexity of drawing out the necessary emotions during filming came from collaborating with such talented actors, which Hoffman credits as a significant advantage. “When you’re acting alongside others who are equally committed, it allows for a genuine exchange of performances,” he explained, reinforcing the importance of chemistry in their portrayals of intimacy and vulnerability.

The film also features an impressive supporting cast, which includes artists like Charli XCX, Daveed Diggs, and Mason Gooding. This diverse assembly not only enhances the narrative but also adds layers to the exploration of contemporary relationships, sexuality, and self-discovery.

“I Want Your Sex” is now screening in theatres, offering audiences a bold and insightful look into love’s multifaceted nature, pushed to its limits. Though loaded with personal and vulnerable content, the film promises an engaging and thought-provoking experience for those willing to confront its themes.